Kasich aide goes to Ohio GOP

Jai Chabria, a long-time friend and aide to Ohio Gov. John Kasich, will join the Ohio Republican Party staff to over see planning for the Republican National Convention in Cleveland in July.

"The world spotlight will be on Cleveland in July as our party nominates the next President of the United States. It's a tremendous and exciting opportunity for Ohio," said Ohio Republican Party Chairman Matt Borges in a written statement. "Jai is a seasoned professional with top notch experience. We are pleased to have him join our team as we plan and prepare for the convention."

Chabria will leave his post as senior adviser in the governor's office, a job he has held since Kasich took office in January 2011, on Friday.

Chabria has been associated with Kasich for more than 20 years in both jobs and politics. He served in the two-man Lehman Brothers investment banking office in Columbus with Kasich for seven years until Lehman Brothers went bankrupt.

Chabria, who lives in suburban Columbus with his wife and two kids, is a graduate of Ohio Wesleyan University.

Kasich said in a written statement: “I am enormously grateful to Jai for his many years of friendship, counsel and outstanding public service to me and the people of Ohio. While it is difficult to see Jai move on, I know that great things lie ahead for him in this next phase of his career. I look forward to our continued deep friendship.”

The Republican convention is expected to draw 50,000 visitors, journalists and politicos to Cleveland from July 18 to July 21. Democrats hold their convention the following week in Philadelphia.